Very few things in life truly upset me. Smoking and the morbidity and mortality that it causes make my blood boil. I believe that we have failed as a society when we allow smoking to kill over 500000 people a year in the US alone. The figure is over 10 million deaths a year worldwide. That is almost 2 Holocausts a year directly related to smoking.

Smoking also ages the skin and causes degeneration of Collagen and Elastic fibers. It causes sagging of the skin and raises the risks of various skin cancers by lowering the immune system.

A recent study by the FDA found that even transient contact with cigarette smoke causes damage; even at a cellular level by damaging the DNA.

http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/12/09/tobacco.risk/index.html?hpt=Sbin

Help a loved one stop smoking.

Zei Gesund

A. David Rahimi, MD,FAAD,FAACS.

Lasers and chemical peels, in skilled hands, help improve the appearance of acne scarring. Some patients with deeper ice-pick and rolling scars need a more tailored approach. Lasers and peels alone are simply not enough.

Subcision with a No-Kor needle can make all the difference. The needle has a small sharp scalpel like tip that goes under the rolling scars and cuts the fibrous bands. This, in turn, causes bleeding into these newly created spaces. The trauma and the blood causes collagen synthesis and significant improvement of the scars.

Deeper scars need to simply be cut with a round scalpel called a “punch”. These punches come in various sizes: 1mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm, etc. After the application of the laser I look at the skin with a strong light at an acute angle. This allows me to see the areas that need more attention. Subcision is performed and deeper scars are excised with the punch and sutured.

Even deep acne scarring can be improved by 40-50 percent this way. A touch up treatments a few months later can increase the improvement to 70-80 percent.

Click on this link and then click on the clinical photographs:

Set 7, 8, and 9 show before and afters of a young patient with deep acne scarring.

http://www.foreveryoung.net/mixto-fractional-co2-laser.html

We hope to see you soon for a free consultation.

A. David Rahimi, MD, FAAD, FAACS.

How does the laser work?

The Cool Breeze Laser by the Cool Touch Laser Company kills the fungal organisms and spores that live in and under the toenail. The laser is FDA cleared and approved for this particular use.  The laser light passes through the toenail without causing damage to the nail or the surrounding skin.  The Cool Touch Laser uses instantaneous temperature monitoring to ensure safe treatment of the nail with minimal discomfort.

It will take time for the previously infected nail to grow out and for the new nail to form.  This can take 6 to 12 months depending on the rate of growth of the toenail.

How is the procedure performed? Is there any preparation?  Any Discomfort?

During the first treatment session the nails are filed down with a Diamond Dermabrader to debride the dead skin and prepare the nail. A thin layer of topical anesthesia is applied to numb the skin around the nail plate. The procedure takes 20-30 minutes to perform and involves mild discomfort from heat.

The Cool Breeze Laser is applied by the doctor to cover the entire nail.  When the appropriate temperature is reached a burst of Cryogen is released to cool the nail and stop the heating of the toenail.  Patients are able to resume their regular activities right after the procedure. 

Will the fungus (Onychomycosis) come back?

The cure rate is 70 to 80 percent.  These rates are comparable to aggressive treatment with the oral medications such as Sporonox and Lamisil. Some individuals have a tendency to re-infection with the fungal organisms. A triple strength topical anti-fungal lotion is applied once or twice a week to prevent re infections.

Laser toenail treatment is not covered by insurance.

Click on this link, or cut and paste in your browser, to look at before and after photos.

http://www.cooltouch.com/laser_treatment_for_toenail_fungus_before_and_after_photos.aspx

Please call me if you have any questions:

Zonya V.

Office manager

323 653-7700

Aesthetic cosmetic surgery is performed to restore “the youthful look”. We all can agree that some celebrities just go too far. Bruce Jenner, Heidi Montag, Donatella Versace, Jocelin Wildenstein, and Amanda Leopre are great examples.

I looked at their before and after photos on several popular sites and asked myself: How could this happen? These are intelligent, articulate people with the means to see very skilled cosmetic doctors! Are they aware that they looked better before their obsession with Cosmetic Surgery forever changed their faces?

I believe the problem is complex. Childhood insecurities, doctors that cannot say NO, and loved ones who don’t intervene are some of the factors.  We (the public) probably make things worse by giving them even more attention.

Body dysmorphic syndrome is a pervasive problem. These celebrities represent extreme cases. I deal routinely in my practice with patients who have either unrealistic expectations or want a certain a look that I cannot provide. I politely say NO; discourage them from having “cutting” surgery and urge them to find ways to reduce stress in their lives. I do provide them with a sound, effective, and safe facial treatment regimen that promote Collagen synthesis and improves their skin tone.

“Less is more” echoes out of the examining room into the hallways. Most move on to find another practitioner that will provide them with what they need. Some realize my genuine interest in helping them look better without drastic surgery.

A. David Rahimi,MD,FAAD,FAACS.

You have a choice. Almost everything aesthetic about the face can be performed surgically versus nonsurgical!

·         Eyelid Surgery: Blepharoplasty versus Thermacool/Cooltouch laser/Botox/Dysport

·         Facelift:               Rhytidectomy versus Thermacool/Cooltouch/Fillers such as Radiesse/Juvederm, fat transfer, Mixto CO2 laser.

·         Cheek Implants: Silicone Implant versus fat transfer, Radiesse, Juvederm.

·         Forehead lift:    Endoscopic Lift versus Volume replacement with fat, Thermacool

·         Liposuction:       Coollipo (laser liposuction) versus Coolsculpting (freeze the fat)

·         Wrinkles:            Surgical facelift versus CO2 Mixto Fraxel, chemical peels, filler, fat transfer

We will tailor a treatment that fits your desires, lifestyle and budget. Most of our treatments have minimal to no-down time.

We hope to see you soon for a complimentary consultation.

Thank you.

Zonya Vialltoro

Office manager

Forever Young, Inc.

Tel 323 653-7700

I recently read an article in the October issue of the Cosmetic Dermatology Journal that might interest you. I believe the title is self explanatory:

Green Tea and its Photoprotective and Anticarcinogenic Effects on the Skin. This article was written by Matthew Zarraga D.O. and David Judy, D.O.

Vol 23 No.10 October 2010 pages 446-449

www.cosderm.com

The article starts by mentioning that Tea is the most commonly consumed beverage in the world. It continues to details it’s in vivo and in-vitro photo protective and anti-carcinogenic effects.  It concludes by saying that: both oral consumption and topical application of green tea can provide both chemoprotection and photoprotection”.

Look for products with green tea extract in them and try Trader Joe' Green Tea!

Asian countries that consume more green tea are known to have lower risks for many types of cancers. On a personal note: I stopped consuming carbonated drinks a while back. Plenty of water, 2 cups of coffee, and one or two cups of green tea at night have made a big difference in the way I feel.

A. David Rahimi, MD, FAAD,FAACS.

Sunscreens Are Safe

An article in the Sun and News publication recently caught my eye. Recent negative news about sunscreens by some news outlets and non-medical writers has consumers questioning the safety and benefits of sunscreens.

“A review of all scientific studies (from 1966 to 2003) shows no evidence of a relationship between sunscreen use and increased risk of melanoma”.

Warwick L. Morison, MD

Professor of Dermatology at Johns Hopkins Medical Center

Sunscreens are not Card Blanche to bake in the sun. They do however have an important role in our daily lives.

A. David Rahimi, MD, FAAD, FAACS.

I highly recommend that you read the entire article in the Sun and Skin News publication by Perry Robins

Fall 2010 Vol 27, No 3

www.skincancer.org

Dr. Oz, who is essentially “America’s doctor” refers to CoolSculpting as “revolutionary” and a “game changer,” and his genuine excitement about the procedure is evident. 

Dr. Avram discussing the science behind CoolSculpting:

http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/cutting-edge-plastic-surgery-pt-2

Dr. Tanzi demonstrating the procedure on a patient:

http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/cutting-edge-plastic-surgery-pt-1

Well, here I was.

I just paid almost 120K for my Coolsculpting "Toy" and had to try it out. I treated my own abdomen and love handles and was quite impressed. It melted away about 30-40 percent of the fat in about 6 weeks.

Finally, a non-invasive way to freeze away unwanted fat with no surgery. Judge for yourself...

http://www.facebook.com/#!/photo.php?fbid=1574789524102&set=a.1574788724082.83619.1066473146

A. David Rahimi,MD, FAAD,FAACS.

Here is a link to a great article that was recently published in the Wall Street Journal. A must read for any one in their 30s and 40s:

http://finance.yahoo.com/family-home/article/111014/wrinkle-erasing-for-starters?mod=family-love_money

A. David Rahimi, MD, FAAD, FAACS.

The Science of Cryolipolysis™

Cryolipolysis™ is the non-invasive cooling of adipose tissue to induce lipolysis – the breaking down of fat cells – to reduce body fat without damage to other tissues. The scientific principles of Cryolipolysis were discovered by dermatologists Dieter Manstein, MD, and R. Rox Anderson, MD, of the Wellman Center for Photomedicine at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School.

 The newest addition to our practice “CoolLipo” allows for laser liposuction and Laser Neck and Facelifts under local anesthesia.

The benefits include:

·         Less swelling and bruising- compared to traditional Liposuction and Facelifts

·         Significantly more tightening of the skin and underlying soft tissue

·         More refined sculpting of the tissue

·         Quicker recovery

Click on the link below to learn more about “Coollipo” and watch an actual procedure

http://www.cooltouch.com/CoolLipo.aspx

A. David Rahimi, MD, FAAD.

What is Aesthetic Exfoliation?

Years of sun exposure and the aging process take their toll on the skin, creating lines, wrinkles, and changes in texture and color. Not only is the face a likely victim of these changes, but the neck, chest, cleavage, arms and hands may be affected as well. MicroExfoliation can reduce the effects of aging on our skin.

MicroExfoliation is a treatment that improves wrinkles, skin texture and color by removing the topmost layer of skin leaving it more supple and vibrant. MicroExfoliation also stimulates the elastic tissue beneath the surface of the skin resulting in a healthier and firmer appearance. MicroExfoliation treatments are administered by trained aestheticians.

A wonderful alternative to chemical peels, the NewApeel® MicroExfoliation treatment is non-invasive, pain-free and requires no down time after treatment. Leading plastic surgeons and dermatologist regard the NewApeel® system as being more gentle and affective than other exfoliating systems, even at higher settings. The length of the treatment and number of treatments vary depending on skin type and condition. Results are gradual but highly effective. Most people experience softer, smoother skin after their first treatment.

For more information:

http://www.newapeel.com/index.html

A. David Rahimi, MD, FAAD.

Cooltouch Coolbreeze for Treatment of Nail Fungus

Initially I was very skeptical when I heard about toenail fungus treatment with lasers. I have been practicing medicine now since 1994 and have been telling patients for the past 16 years that toenail fungus can only be treated with oral medications such as lamisil and Sporonox. These medications are generally only about 50 percent effective and involve taking medications that can rarely damage the liver.

All this has now changed: Cooltouch lasers (1320 nm long wavelength) can now be safely used to eliminate deep seated nail fungus infections. I tried this on a few friends and patients with amazing results. Two to three treatments over 3 months and you can see new nail growing. Toe nails do take 6 to 9 months to fully grow out.

Here is a video posted by a podiatrist in Florida that shows how simple the procedure actually is:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NHs1J-ECMc

Please go to my menu of service tab on top of the page and look up Cooltouch laser under the procedures tab and read about it.

Cost: $500/Treatment

I will update you in a few months and post before and after photos.

Hope to see you soon.

Good for Your Skin, Pocketbook, and the Environment: Top Ten Cosmetics Brands

There are millions of cosmetics brands out there, and when you make a stop over at your local convenient store or cosmetics retailer, you may be hard-pressed to navigate which ones are of good quality, won't damage your skin, and also don't participate in any sort of cruel animal testing. The following are ten brands that in some way meet these criteria, with the added bonus of being very affordable. These brands prove that you don't have to break the bank for bringing out the beauty in you.

1. Physicians Formula

Physicians formula brand cosmetics are designed with sensitive skin in mind. Their Organic Wear line of products are 100% free of harsh chemicals, synthetic preservatives, parabens, and are completely cruelty-free. What's more Physicians Formula can be found at nearly any drugstore for very reasonable prices.

2. Almay

Almay is another brand that is especially good for those with sensitive skin. The prices of their products range from about $5 to $20. They are carried at most drugstores, and their entire line is cruelty-free. Almay also has an organic line and is highly rated in many beauty magazines.

3. Revlon

Revlon is an industry giant in the cosmetics industry, but notwithstanding its dominance among such products, it's cheap and also the very first large company to stop testing its products on animals, which it did in 1990. Revlon's specific goal is to provide quality products at affordable prices.

4. Hard Candy

Although Hard Candy is not quite as well known as the industry leaders, Hard Candy is becoming more and more popular. Hard Candy can be found at most Wal-Mart stores. Their products are not tested on animals and they are particularly well known for the edgy packaging and fashionista bent.

5. Oil of Olay

Oil of Olay is a reputable brand of cosmetics that is highly renowned for its affordable facial and anti-aging products like its Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream and several eye serums. Although most of these types of products come at a heavy price, Oil of Olay is particularly affordable and can be found at most drugstores, too.

6. Burt's Bees

Burt's Bees is a brand of healthy and beauty products that you can also find at most drugstores and other retailers. While Burt's Bees emphasis is mostly on hygiene, they do offer cosmetic products like lip glosses, eye creams, facial moisturizers, etc.

Burt's Bees is a bit pricier than most cosmetic lines, but their products are natural and they have a history of environmental friendliness.

7. Bare Escentuals

Bare Escentuals is a popular brand of cosmetics known especially for its mineral based makeup, which is also not tested on animals. Bare Escentuals emphasizes the natural look and can be purchased at affordable prices. Their products available at most outlets, including drugstores.

8. Maybelline

Maybelline is another giant in the affordable cosmetics industry, but it delivers quality products all the same. It's Mineral Makeup is especially highly praised, although it is best reserved for those without very oily skin. According to one reviewer, Maybelline Mineral Powder Foundation "takes the cake in terms of value.

9. Afterglow

Although this company is smaller and most of its products can be found more easily online through such retailers as Amazon.com, Afterglow is tops when it comes to organic value and sensitive skin. Afterglow is also noted for its outstanding customer service

10. Neutrogena

Neutrogena is a very affordable brand of cosmetics that can be found virtually everywhere. The best aspect of Neutrogena's line is its non comedogenic emphasis, meaning that their products are excellent for sensitive skin and have been shown to reduce acne over long term use. While Neutrogena's line is cruelty-free, it must be noted that its parent company, Johnson and Johnson is not.

By-line:

This guest post is contributed by Tisha Dotson, who writes on the topics of medical coding certification.  She welcomes your comments at her email Id: tishadotson86 @gmail . com.